Aged care workers across Australia will see another increase in their pay packets from today, following the Fair Work Commission’s latest award wage determination.
The rise marks the fourth increase in wages for the sector since the Health Services Union brought a work value case in 2020. Around 400,000 workers are set to benefit, with the Australian Government committing $17.7 billion to support the increases.
For registered nurses at level two, the most common classification, the change equates to an additional $60.20 per week. Enrolled nurses at level two will see $62.40 extra each week, while personal care workers at level three will take home an additional $39.50 per week.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the pay rises reflect the important role workers play in caring for older Australians.
“Aged care workers do an incredible job and they deserve every dollar of this pay rise that we’re delivering,” Dr Chalmers said. “This investment recognises the big contribution that aged care workers make to our economy and community and will help to create a bigger incentive for young Australians looking for a rewarding career, to pick aged care in the future.”
The first major boost came in July 2023, when a 15 per cent wage rise was introduced. Since then, further increases of between 3 and 13 per cent have been phased in, with today’s changes being the latest instalment. Another increase is scheduled for 1 August 2026 for registered and enrolled nurses.
Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Amanda Rishworth highlighted the role the changes play in addressing gender inequality in pay.
“Reducing the gender pay gap was one of the key reasons the government funded the 15 per cent pay increase for aged care carers,” Ms Rishworth said. “The Fair Work Commission recognised the historical gender-based undervaluation of work in aged care, leading to significant wage increases that our government funded.”
Minister for Aged Care and Seniors Sam Rae added that the increases aim to ensure aged care work remains a sustainable career choice.
“Aged care workers deserve better pay and more recognition for the meaningful work they do,” Mr Rae said. “We are proud to be funding the largest ever increase to award wages in a work value case for people who care for our loved ones with such compassion.”
The Albanese Government has described the series of wage rises as part of its broader plan to boost wages across the economy, while aiming to strengthen recruitment and retention in the aged care workforce.
